HFM BOCES and Utica University are joining forces to address the ongoing shortage of certified teachers and will conduct an informational session regarding the 'Teacher Apprenticeship Program' on Thursday, Nov. 9 for anyone interested in pursuing a fast-tracked teacher certification.
Through Utica University's unique program, local residents can earn a fast-tracked teacher certification in just eight months and become a teacher of record in a school district by September 2024. Individuals who have completed an undergraduate bachelor's degree (BA/BS) with a minimum 3.0 GPA in the following areas can apply to begin their master's in teaching starting in January: Earth Science, Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Math, Spanish, French, English, Social Studies, and Technology.
The New York State Education Department (NYSED) Transitional B program is designed to address the severe and ongoing shortage of certified teachers across the state. In response, NYSED has agreed to award qualified graduate teacher education candidates a Transitional B Teaching Certificate. According to Gov. Kathy Hochul's office, New York State is facing a steep teacher retirement cliff in the coming years. The state needs approximately 180,000 new teachers over the next decade to meet workforce needs.
The informational session is open to the public and will take place on Thursday, November 9 at 5:30pm at the HFM BOCES campus located at 2755 State Highway 67, Johnstown. It will provide an in-depth opportunity to learn more about this program. For more information and to register, visit www.hfmboces.org/teacherapprenticeship